Residential structures consume nearly 40 percent of all energy produced in the United States. For most homeowners, monthly energy bills are one of the largest expenses they have. Instead of spending more money than you need to on energy, you need to work on reducing this expense.
Homeowners have to work a bit harder in order to find cheaper energy rates, unlike business owners, who can always use websites like this one to find cheaper energy rates (source: https://www.energybot.com/). Luckily, there are a variety of eco-energy solutions you can use.
The following are a list of those solutions and why they are so beneficial.
1. Investing in Solar Panels
If you are looking for an alternative to traditional energy, then solar power is a good idea. While it will take you a while to get completely off of fossil-fuel-based energy, it is definitely worth the effort. The first step in this process should be installing solar panels on your rooftop.
Choosing the right panels and getting them installed properly is not easy. This is why consulting with professionals in the solar power industry is a good idea. Most homeowners fail to realize the large price tag on solar panels is worth it. Over time, you will recoup this expense, which is why getting these panels installed is a good idea.
2. Research Your Existing Power Plan
One of the simplest things you can do when trying to save money on energy is reviewing your existing plan. Rather than just settling for the provider you currently have, do your homework. If there are multiple power companies competing for business in your area, then you may be able to get a good deal.
The only way to figure this out is by calling around and getting a few quotes is essential. With this information, you can easily find the best energy provider in your area.
3. Check Your Existing Insulation
Keeping the air produced by your HVAC unit inside of your home is only possible with insulation. If you live in an older home, the insulation that is in place may be outdated. This is why checking insulation and upgrading is a good idea.
Modern insulation is designed to make the home’s more energy efficient. Putting new insulation in your attic or your walls is a great way to avoid energy waste. Consulting with knowledgeable professionals is a great way to figure out what you need.
Once these professionals have offered advice on what type of insulation is needed and how much is needed, you can get them to install it. With this professional help, you can get this complicated job done quickly and correctly.
4. Energy Monitors are a Good Investment
Making informed decisions about your home energy usage is difficult. One of the biggest hurdles most people face when trying to make these decisions is a lack of relevant information. The best way to increase the amount of information you have about this expense is by putting in an energy monitor.
Not only are these monitors inexpensive, but they also provide you with information like the amount of energy consumed hourly in your home. With this information, you can pinpoint the causes of energy waste and address them quickly. The more information you have about your home’s energy usage, the easier it will be to get issues fixed in a hurry.
5. Take a Look At Your Appliances
If you are like most homeowners, spending money is something you dread. This is why most homeowners keep their worn and outdated appliances in place for years. While this may sound like a good idea, it can actually cost you money.
Older appliances will use more energy, which is why replacing them with more efficient ones is a good idea. Before deciding on which new appliances to buy, take a look at the reviews and Energy Star rating to ensure they are the right fit.
Source-Pexels
6. Avoid Leaving a Worn Out Roof in Place
One of the most important parts your home has is the roof. If a roof is old and leaking, chances are a lot of energy is being wasted. This is why replacing the roof is essential when trying to reduce monthly operating costs. A new roof is costly, but the money spent will pale in comparison to the amount of money you have to pay to the power company each month if the old roof is left in place.
7. Try Using Native Plants For Landscaping
The average homeowner spends around $2,000 a year on optional maintenance. Generally, landscaping will be included in this optional maintenance category. If you are looking for a way to make your landscaping design more eco-friendly, then utilizing native plants is a great idea.
One of the main reasons why using native plants is such a great idea is because they typically require less water and care to stay looking great. Not only can you reduce the amount of water used for these native plants, you will also be able to cut your consumption of pesticides and fertilizers in half.
If you are unsure about what type of native plants to use in your yard, be sure to consult with a professional in your area.
8. Installing an Attic Fan is Beneficial
Are you looking for an effective and efficient way to keep the inside of your home cooler? If so, you may want to consider installing an attic fan. This fan can help spread cool air throughout your home without using a lot of energy.
The heat in your home generally rises to the attic. If there is an attic fan in place, it will push the air out and reduce the internal temperature in your residence. Instead of trying to install one of these fans on your own, hire an electrician. They will have no problem getting an attic fan installed quickly and correctly.
What Are You Waiting For?
If your monthly energy bills are steadily increasing, now is the time to act. With a detailed energy audit, you can find and fix these issues in a hurry.
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